Gala Apples

Originating in New Zealand, Gala apples were developed by apple breeder J.H. Kidd in 1934. They are a cross between Kidd’s Orange Red and Golden Delicious apples. They grow well in both warm and cold climates, and are now available year-round. The thin skin of a Gala varies in color from cream to orange, highlighted with pink to red stripes. The dense flesh is creamy yellow and crisp, and it offers a mild sweet flavor. This makes the Gala excellent for snacking, as well as a great choice for use in fresh salads, either green or fruit salads. When cooked, the flavor of a Gala becomes milder, so it pairs well with a stronger flavored apple such as a Granny Smith or a Pippin. Gala apples offer a fair amount of vitamins A, C and B. They are low in calories, high in water content, and contain a significant amount of a dietary fiber called pectin, which has been shown to lower cholesterol. Pectin also creates a feeling of “fullness.” And for many of us, snacking on fresh apples like the Gala satisfies the sweet tooth!